Normalize It Forward

Navigating the complicated landscape of adolescent mental health requires empathy, support, and an open conversation. Marc Lehman welcomes Jill Weinstein, an LPC, mental health professional, and Clinical Director of Ignite, an adolescent mental health program at the Berman Center in Atlanta, who shares her insights from over 20 years of experience. The conversation explores the “big shift” of young adults leaving for college, the importance of proactive support—including managing legal shifts like FERPA—and the complicated, multilayered issues facing teens today. Jill and Marc also discuss reframing self-care as daily moments of awe and joy, the need for healthy relationships with social media, and the powerful role of community and connection in healing.

Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Rising rates of anxiety and depression among teens and young adults aren’t just statistics—they’re real stories playing out in families every day. Dr. Mariela Podolski, a Connecticut-based child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, joins host Marc Lehman to explore the forces behind this trend and what parents, students, and communities can do about it. With more than 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Podolski breaks down how instant gratification, phones, and “toxic positivity” affect mental health; why delayed gratification and frustration tolerance matter; and how parents can model wellness through sleep, nutrition, movement, and purpose. Packed with practical tips on managing devices, scaffolding self-care, and normalizing help-seeking, this conversation empowers families and young people to build the resilience they need for school, college, and beyond.

Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Body image and eating disorders aren’t just clinical issues; they’re lived realities shaped by culture, technology, and family life. Drawing on nearly 25 years in private practice, licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Emily Gordon explores how perfectionism, social media, and comparison culture amplify these struggles — and how parents can support teens and young adults without adding to the noise. She mixes practical strategies with warmth, showing how boundaries, honest dialogue, and tuning in to one’s inner experience can become powerful tools for resilience and healing.

Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Suicide loss support takes on a deeply human dimension in this conversation with Greg Kligman. He opens up about a decade on crisis lines and in survivor groups, explaining how empathy and presence help families carry the weight of traumatic loss. Listeners hear about the Survivor Support Program, why stigma and shame surround suicide, and how simple outreach can ease crushing isolation. Greg also shares the practices that protect his own wellbeing and offers practical ways anyone can contribute to a culture of compassion without burning out.

Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Daily practice is the foundation Scott Simons uses to transform health, mindset and leadership, and he believes it’s the most overlooked key to resilience. In this candid conversation, the professional speaker, wellness strategist and purpose-driven entrepreneur shares how a mentor helped him turn addiction into a life of service and how starting health instead of only stopping bad habits creates real freedom. He explains how simple, repeatable habits like breathwork, hydration and movement can reset stress, rebuild the nervous system and spark clarity. Scott also opens up about his “Be Human” initiative, which helps people reclaim higher ground and connect through shared humanity, and he offers practical tools for young adults, parents and leaders to stay grounded and thrive in everyday life.

Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Ever wondered how personal tragedy can ignite a powerful movement for change? Join us as we welcome Jake Miskin, the visionary screenwriter and producer behind the critically acclaimed film, Shattered Ice. Inspired by the heartbreaking loss of classmates to suicide during his own youth, Jake channeled his grief into a compelling narrative that tackles the unspoken complexities of mental health and community healing. In this profound conversation, Jake shares the deeply personal journey that led to Shattered Ice, a film designed to spark crucial dialogue, especially among young adults and athletes. Discover how storytelling can be a powerful tool for connection and why breaking the silence around mental health is more vital now than ever before.

Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Ever wondered what it really takes to face your deepest mental health struggles head-on and emerge stronger? Tune in for a powerfully honest conversation with Brian Talarczyk, author of I Am Not Bipolar. Brian shares his personal battle with mental illness, offering crucial insights on the importance of seeking help, navigating psychotic episodes, and reframing stress as a sign of growth. Discover his unwavering commitment to authenticity and how giving back to the community is integral to his own mental wellness journey. This episode is a testament to resilience, vulnerability, and the strength found in open dialogue.

Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

What happens when raw musical talent meets relentless entrepreneurial drive? You get Shi Eubank. This week, we’re thrilled to feature the multi-faceted country rock artist who’s not only captivating audiences with his unique sound but also inspiring with his incredible life story. From his early days fronting Savage After Midnight to building eleven roofing companies and a sunglasses brand, Shi’s journey is a testament to unwavering determination. But beyond the impressive resume, you’ll discover a man deeply committed to authenticity, mental wellness, and giving back. Prepare to be inspired as Shi shares his unfiltered insights on personal growth, the power of music, and why embracing your true self is the key to unlocking limitless potential.

Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Fostering human connection and hope within schools is a vital step in addressing youth mental health. In this insightful episode, we delve into this critical topic with Greg Hudnall Jr., CEO of Hope Squad. We learn about Hope Squad’s innovative approach to empowering students to become active listeners and supportive peers, helping to normalize conversations around mental health and provide crucial connections. Greg shares his unique journey from corporate America to leading Hope Squad, inspired by his father’s dedication to suicide prevention, and discusses the alarming statistics surrounding youth suicide and mental health challenges. This conversation sheds light on the importance of peer-to-peer support, emotional awareness, and the need for communities to recognize and address mental health issues proactively. Greg also provides valuable resources, including HopeSquad.com, for schools and parents seeking to implement effective mental health support systems.

Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.

Redefining aging is about sparking joy and embracing every moment with infectious enthusiasm! This episode shines with the vibrant energy of Esther Brzezinski, a multi-talented actor, voiceover artist, and digital creator who’s showing the world that “Age is not my cage!” Hailing from Montreal, Esther’s got a booming online community—over 150,000 on TikTok and 110,000 on Instagram—all drawn to her authentic zest for life and message of positive aging. She’s not just lighting up social media; you’ll find her on screen in projects like “Jurnee’s Revenge” and “Goin’ Ape 2” and behind the mic producing podcasts, including her own “Esther’s Breeze.” Get ready for a chat filled with laughter and insightful nuggets as Esther spills the tea on self-care from the inside out, her adventures in raising neurodiverse kids, and how she’s smashing stereotypes one viral video at a time. This is an episode packed with inspiration, good vibes, and a reminder that life just gets better with age!

Reading about mental health is hard. Let’s schedule a free consultation.